Ripple Secures FCA Registration as the UK Tightens Crypto Rules

Ripple Labs has taken a clear step into the UK’s regulated crypto space. Its subsidiary, Ripple Markets UK Ltd., has gained registration with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under the country’s money laundering rules. 

This move gives Ripple a regulated presence in Britain at a time when the country is preparing stricter rules for the entire crypto industry.

Ripple Gains FCA Registration but Faces Limits in the UK

The FCA registration confirmed that Ripple now meets the UK’s anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) standards. This status allows Ripple to operate within a defined regulatory framework and signals basic compliance with UK law.

However, this registration does not equal full financial services authorization. The FCA has placed clear limits on what Ripple can do in the UK market.

Under the FCA approval, Ripple cannot run crypto ATMs in the UK. It also cannot serve retail customers without first getting direct consent from the regulator. 

In addition, Ripple cannot appoint agents or distributors, and it cannot issue electronic money to consumers, small businesses, or charities. These restrictions show that the FCA is allowing access to its crypto market while keeping tight control over consumer-facing activities.

Ripple Gains UK Entry as FCA Tightens Crypto Rules

Despite these limits, the registration gives Ripple a strong foothold in the UK. Britain is working to become a global hub for crypto, but with rules that closely match those used in traditional finance sectors.

The timing of Ripple’s approval comes as the FCA tightens its oversight. Most recently, the regulator announced that crypto firms must apply for authorization under the Financial Services and Markets Act (FSMA) starting in September 2026. The full regime will take effect by October 2027.

Firms already registered under AML or payment rules will not receive automatic approval under the new FSMA regime. They must submit fresh applications. Even firms that already hold FSMA authorization for other services must apply to expand their permissions.

Late applicants face serious limits. Crypto providers can continue managing existing contracts, but they cannot start new UK-regulated crypto activities until they receive approval.

By securing FCA registration now, Ripple positions itself ahead of the expected rush when the 2026 application window opens. This early move reduces future uncertainty and strengthens Ripple’s standing with UK regulators.

UK Plans Stricter Crypto Reporting Rules This Year

The UK wants to bring digital assets fully into its financial system, with clear rules and firm oversight. Officials have already introduced new reporting obligations for crypto platforms. 

This mandatory rule requires companies to submit detailed information on all transactions made by users who live in the country.

This change will grant the tax authority automatic access to both domestic and international crypto data for the first time. The aim is to tighten oversight before the first global exchange of information under CARF begins in 2027.